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Neriza Sarmiento-Saito's
ON THE ROAD TO...
September-October 2008
BONDINGS AT SUMMERTIME
One Sunday afternoon I missed my scheduled recording of our conversation lesson in Filipino with Cindy and Masako in FM Cocolo's TINIG PINOY so we decided to have a live report from Izumisano City near Kansai International Airport. The "target word" was TABI "beside" in Filipino as compared to the same word TA-BI (Journey, Trip) in Japanese. "Nasa tabing-dagat po ako ngayon at mula rito napakaganda ng kulay orange na papalubog na araw. Hay, Cindy siguradong maaalala mo yung sunset sa Manila Bay pag nasa tabi ka ng boyfriend mo." Cindy chuckled and then continued at the other end of the line. "Absent ang estudyante nating si Masako dahil may sakit. Katabi niya ang pusa sa bahay ngayon."
I chose the Japanese word "tabi" for the month of August specifically for its significance to both Filipinos and Japanese, the young and the old, the living and the departed. The "O-bon" season is believed to be the period when the souls can journey back to earth and therefore their relatives have to welcome them with food offerings and incense. Summer vacation for about a month enable children to spend time with their
grandparents in their hometowns or go on family trips abroad.
Amid speculation of a decrease in air travelers triggered by the skyrocketing cost of fuel, business bustles for PAL Osaka as Mr. Kanuka and Mr. Ito checked-in as a Manila-bound passenger. The Miyagawas of Act Tourist and their staff were giving away breakfast tickets and assisting a group from Shiga who will attend a wedding in Cavite. AIT's Marie was worried about a passenger who was late for check-in. Air World Travel's Ninomiya san made perfect arrangements for me to travel in style.
Fragrant sampaguita leis from the DOT staff in Manila Lorly's usual delightful surprise, a warm welcome from Noemi who made sure we painted the town red as soon as we left the Centennial Terminal, a quick drive through "THE FORT" one of the trendiest commercial district in Bonifacio Global City, a stroll in Greenhills where we saw Ai-ai de las Alas and other celebrities and a glimpse of Pilita Corrales in-front of her Cafe-restaurant "PILITA." After a sumptuous dinner at a Greek restaurant, we drove to a Comedy Theater PUNCHLINE. We sat at the farthest table "Para daw hindi ma-OKRAY" (target of jokes) ng mga comedians like Eric and Inday Garutay. The place was filled with roars of laughter from locals and balikbayans. Pakiramdam ko natangay ng hurricane buong theater and the next day, I was like Dorothy landing in the Land of OZ - the country down-under.
My mother's 8oth birthday gave me the chance to meet many Filipinos in Melbourne, the Asian gourmet capital in Australia because of the concentration of immigrants from China, Vietnam, Thailand, India and the Philippines.
VICKY has lived in Australia for 29 years with her Portuguese husband. She was a former schoolteacher in Ormoc who is the Ate of all the Filipino staff members of Qantas Catering Service at Melbourne Airport, Alice, Diana, Jo-Anne, Julie-Ann, Greg and Larry, NELSON, from OLONGAPO works for CANON and with his wife Loida. They raise 2 teen-age children TESS and MAR who works at the Australian Medicare Center. Recently some professionals in the medical field have integrated themselves into the Australian System/ DR. EILEEN ANICETO from Iligan City has taken a series of tests. To qualify for employment, DR. WARREN too, a pediatrician is taking advanced courses in a local university. ALMA recently acquired a PHd in Accounting and is now with the Melbourne City Mission. The MARTINOS live in the posh suburb of Highton. Renato is of Italian descent and his wife CALOY who used to work with a travel company in Manila has an only son Chris who is studying to be a High School teacher. Bobby and Cherry Ramos from Laguna migrated to Australia 17 years ago with their 3 year-old son EARL who has been consistently bilingual. He took a proficiency test in Filipino and passed both written and oral tests and amazed the evaluators after he sang "USO PA BA ANG HARANA." Although still a sophomore in a course in Paramedics, he has been assisting in actual ambulance work where he encounters many elderly Filipinos happy to have a Filipino-speaking Australian national. His sister Kerri, who was born after they received Australian citizenship, is still struggling with Tagalog.
GUS and OWIE from BULACAN worked with two leading commercial banks before migrating with their two children. Two years later, they were given Australian citizenships and acquired a modest house in Victoria and the comfort of life with their extended families.
It was indeed a relaxing summer spent among family, friends and would be friends. On the way back to Japan, I managed to have a bonding with my elderly aunts in the province and a dinner in Trinoma with my brother and sisters in law and my nephews and nieces. TABI-TABI, KATABI, NASA TABI - that's what makes us Filipinos survive anywhere in the world. Basta "BONDING," number 1 talaga ang Pinoy.
July-August 2008
Mila and Rottery
On a rainy Mothers' Day last May 11, we drove to Hiroshima to attend an event organized by a group called "Hiroshima Assistance to Filipino Communities" (HAFC), composed of Filipino wives of Japanese, trainees and students. Watching the lush greenery of its mountains and a glorious view of the once-devastated city, it reminded me of a visit to Hiroshima in 2003. I recorded the Filipino version of the voice-guide to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The day before the recording, Prof. Masanao Oue of the Osaka University's Research Institute for World Languages, Filipino Studies Program, coordinator of that project, Dr. Rolando Tolentino of the University of the Philippines and I were given a familiarization tour of the museum. A mixture of shock and sadness came over us after seeing more than 6,000 items on display--silent reminders of the August 6 atomic bombing of Hiroshima: burned pieces of clothes, shoes, sandals, bags, twisted bicycles, and even fragments of human skin and fingernails exposed to radiation. One of the most touching stories ever told of that fateful day was about a young girl who cradled a dying little boy in her arms inspite of her injuries, while he cried for his lost mother. The girl sang a lullaby until his sobs and her voice were gone forevermore.
We were welcomed warmly by the members of HAFC especially by the ever accommodating Mila Goto fondly dubbed as the Mother of Pinoys in Fukuyama. Roterry De luna Shimono hugged us eagerly. Resplendent and vibrant, she has tirelessly led this new group to come up with this event to bring Filipinos and Japanese in Fukuyama together to avail themselves of the services of the Philippine Consulate General Osaka--Kobe's Consular Outreach mission and the Department of Tourism Osaka's Travel Presentation and to encourage networking among the Pinoys in Hiroshima. For many of her close friends like me, Roterry is the indefatigable spirit behind many of the noteworthy events of the Filipino communities in Kansai. And very few knew, too, that behind the scene, she was like the injured girl who cradled the little boy for she had a colorful life in Japan. She, too, has her shares of great pain.
Her first marriage was not as rosy as she expected. Her three children were the only motivation she had to keep on going. There was a time that she had to run away and took odd jobs like working in a gasoline station. There were times she was so embarrassed when friends saw her looking drab and unkept. That was when Roterry realized the sufferings of other Filipina wives like her in the area so she organized a group called Ninjin Kai, meaning people's gathering in Kanji. As the first Filipina in Mihara-cho, she displayed a dynamic leadership that gained her the respect of the international community and the government officials from 1985-1987. While raising two of her children, Meri and Shinji, who were born in Hiroshima, she became friendly with Mila Goto who came to Japan in 1973. As the pioneer Pinay in Hiroshima, the hospitable and bubbly Mila soon became her nanay, ate and a close friend. In the early 90's her family moved to Osaka. Without Mila nearby, Roterry was lonely so she contacted the Kansai Nippi Tomo No Kai and Amy Wafuura of the Kadoma Philippines Friendship Association. From there, she was unstoppable even after the birth of her third son Ken.
The first thing she did while in Osaka was to enroll in a night school to brush up her Japanese skills that she started in Hiroshima because she could not understand the letters from her children's school. She passed the entrance exam at a regular Senior High School, too. She re-established Ninjin Kai in Kashiwara City and fostered a closer tie with the Kashiwara International Association and the Kashiwara Jaycees where she interpreted during meetings with the Makati Jaycees. Aside from interpreting for the Osaka Prefectural police, she was often hired at NHK Osaka as translator of special programs from the Philippines like Eat Bulaga. In 1998, as one of the key officers of the PCCC, she was instrumental in organizing the Centennial Celebration of Philippine Independence in Osaka. 1999 was her year to shine. Roterry and her daughter passed an audition to be in the cast of Shinya Eiho's musical "Mayonaka no Ryuseigun." That same year she starred opposite Henry Tabao in Joey Manalang's original musical "The Gaijin" performed in different parts of Osaka until 2002. Roterry's role was that of a battered wife. Coincidentally, her role onstage seemed to extend to her real life. She parted ways for good with her husband, then left for the Philippines and opened her own school in her hometown. Somehow she made a U-turn to Japan two years later after meeting a kind man from Hiroshima who runs a freight service company. They got married in 2007. The new Mrs. Shimono says, "Akala ko puro na lang hirap ang buhay ko. My life changed completely, He is so kind and he understands our Filipino way of life. Gustung-gusto nya ng adobo, pinakbet at bagoong. We plan to live in the Philippines after our retirement."
Meanwhile, Roterry, together with Mila and the members of HAFC, will continue to sing lullabyes to comfort every Filipino in need in Hiroshima.
Where are you from?
TOBOSO, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL
What's your occupation?
ENGLISH TEACHER AND INTERPRETER
How long have you been in Japan?
23 YEARS
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
RELAXING MOMENTS AT HOME AND THE SCENIC VIEW FROM MY TERRACE
What do you like best about Japan?
CLEANLINESS,CONVENIENCE and HELPFUL PEOPLE.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
A LITTLE LENIENCY IN MIGRATION PROCEDURES SO THAT OUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS CAN JOIN US HERE.
If you can teach things you have learned from the Japanese what would it be?
GREATER VISION AND PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE ESPECIALLY IN HANDLING FINANCES AT HOME. JAPANESE HOUSEWIVES ARE VERY GOOD IN CONTROLLING THEIR BUDGET THAT IS WHY THEY CAN AFFORD TO BUY PROPERTIES.
Please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan.
ALL OF US WILL ENCOUNTER UPS AND DOWNS IN LIFE. IT COULD BE IN THE BEGINNING OR IT COULD BE LATER. IT COULD BE OUR DESTINY BUT WE ALL HAVE THE ABILITY TO CHANGE OUR COURSE BY MAKING GOALS IN LIFE. SUCCESS IS DETERMINED BY THE WAY YOU DISCIPLINE YOURSELF. SO SAIL ON AND FACE THOSE CHALLENGES BRAVELY. ALWAYS BE HONEST AND BE THANKFUL TO GOD FOR ALL HIS BLESSINGS.
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May-June 2009
A JOY FOR ALL SEASONS with Joy Talia-Miyagawa
Buwan ng Mayo... panahon ng pista at Santacruzan sa Pilipinas. Golden Week naman rito sa Japan. Imagine, April 28 pa lang e may mga nag-uumpisa ng umuwi sa probinsya. Lalo na sa "peak season" Ð May 3-6 siguradong fully booked ang mga bullet trains, long distance buses at mga eroplano. And speaking of air travel, siguradong nakapila na ang maraming Pinoy sa mga check Ð in counters sa mga airports dito sa Japan.
Many of those traveling through Kansai International Airport might fail to notice the petite and gracious lady assisting passengers at the ACT TOURIST counter. Simple lang ang beauty nya. Laging may shy smile at very polite kahit kanino. But the lady is no ordinary Pinay as she is the co-owner of one of the best known travel agencies in Kansai where her husband, KIYOSHI is President. Akala siguro ng iba, dahil owner na, pwede nang pa-easy-easy lang.
But not for Joy. She has managed to shift roles as a career-woman, wife and mother.
Alas-singko pa lang ng umaga, gising na ang Miyagawa family. Her 19 year old daughter Kaori assists them during school breaks from her university in Hirakata. In addition to 7 other Japanese staff that includes Mr. Miyagawa's older sons, Yoshiki and Takeshi, two other Filipinos, Ana Liza Son and Jun Mendiola provide valuable assistance to the company. Alas-7 nasa counter na si Joy kasama ang kanyang staff to assist departing passengers. Almost 1/4 of the passengers on that day for flights to the Philippines are serviced by Act Tourist. What makes them a hit with customers? "Lagi po kasing nasisiyahan ang nga pasahero namin kasi parang kapamilya ang pag-aasikaso namin sa kanila. Kung minsan nga po kahit over na ang bagahe nila, nagagawan pa namin ng paraan. Pag may hindi nasakay na pasahero, kami rin po ang naghahanap ng accommodations." Before the end of the day, staff meetings are held to assess the dayÕs work and Joy goes back home to fulfill her housewifely chores. On some days her husband Kiyoshi cooks for the family.
Joy is one of the 3 daughters of the late Jose Talia, a soldier from Camiling Tarlac and Victoria from Plaridel, Bulacan. The family lived in Nueva Vizcaya where her father was stationed. Nakintal sa murang isip ni Joy ang likas na kasipagan ng mga Ilocano. Nagsikap siyang makatapos ng pag-aaral nang maagang namatay ang kanyang ama. Noong 1987, ikinasal sila ni Mr. Miyagawa at tumira sa Ehime-ken where daughter Kaori was born. Dahil sa ilang mapagsamantala, bumagsak ang kanilang negosyo. That was when they decided to move to Kansai and started from scratch. That was when a friend suggested starting a travel agency. To promote the name of their company, ACT TOURIST sponsored major events of the Filipino communities in Kansai giving away round trip tickets to the Philippines. The family-run business is still going strong. Ana Liza comments that Mr. and Mrs. Miyagawa manages the business well. "Magaling magpalakad sa opisina si Ma'am Joy. Minsan nga may mga tumatawag na Pilipina hindi lang para mag-order ng tiket kundi para humingi ng payo sa buhay." This is where Joy, Liza and Jun give their advices to them. "Aba eh pwede na rin pala tayong counseling clinic," chuckles Jun. Like a big and happy family sending off a loved one, ACT TOURIST has started providing free breakfast at KIX for their customers.
When I told Joy that she probably goes home to the Philippines more often than anyone, she just laughed and said: "Tuwing undas lang ako umuuwi para naman makadalaw sa libingan ng mga kamag-anak ko." Those visits also afford Joy a chance to relax from her busy travel seasons in Japan and enjoy her favorite Ilocano dish... PINAKBET.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM ?
Plaridel, Bulacan and Camiling,Tarlac
WHAT IS YOUR OCCUPATION/ PROFESSION?
Vice-President of a travel company
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN JAPAN?
19 years
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT THE PHILIPPINES?
Gardening because I love flowers especially roses.
WHAT IS THE WEIRDEST THING THAT YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED IN JAPAN?
In the beginning, I thought that the endless bowing among neighbors was odd.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT JAPAN?
When people set appointments, they really come on time.
IF YOU CAN CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT JAPAN, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I wish the Japanese government can give better visa status to Filipino spouses of Japanese here who are long-time residents. I think a lot of them have contributed a great deal to Japanese society.
IF YOU CAN TEACH THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM THE JAPANESE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Perseverance. No matter what and no matter how, work towards a goal.
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECIPE FOR A SUCCESSFUL LIFE IN JAPAN.
Just be true to oneself and respect the Japanese work ethics. Since we are used to a more informal way of handling business in the Philippines, there are a lot of adjustments to do when doing business in Japan. Customers are always first and they expect to be accorded the best service, too. I always make sure that I give consideration to our customers. And most of all, inter-personal relationships are also vital.
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A VALIANT KNIGHT IN KANSAI
with SIR GELACIO "JUN" SILVA
l-r: julius (eldest son), nida, (wife), and jun
Kansai’s long-time resident, Sir
Jun, is the commander of the Knights of Rizal, Kansai Chapter.
For several years now, Jun has remained at the helm of this prestigious
society wherein the major goal of which is to “emulate and propagate
the ideals of the great Malayan --- Dr. Jose Rizal.” Jun is the first
commander from the private sector to lead this society. The previous
ones were officials of the Philippine Consulate in Kobe. Under Jun’s
leadership the Knights of Rizal spearheaded several projects that
benefited charitable institutions in the Philippines. Jun was also a
former president of the church-based Sama-sama Community. Now, in his
late fifties Jun is even more active because he was again tapped to
head the new Knights of Rizal and was elected as Vice-Chairperson of
the Philippine Community Coordinating Council (PCCC) the umbrella
organization of all Filipino communities in Kansai. Let us find out
more about
this knight in shining armour.
He is the 2nd to the youngest of six children
--- Ricardo, Rizalina, Carlos, Almario, Gelacio and Cherry Lynn. The
Silva family lived comfortably in Galas Quezon City. His father worked
at the City Hall but he passed away when Jun was only 3. His mother,
Priscilla took care of the family single-handedly. She would always
tell them to “love one another." Jun made sure that his mother’s
efforts will not be in vain. He graduated valedictorian in elementary
and graduated with honors at the UST High School. “I think that
education at a Catholic school is a big factor in the formation of
character," says Jun. “Naging palasimba ako kaya kahit ngayon, I never
miss a Sunday mass kahit pagod ako sa trabaho.” He works as a company
employee for 23 years now in a Japanese firm where he has gained the
respect and trust of his employers and co-workers. “Sayaw lang sa
tugtog ng mga hapon. Basta marunong ka lang makisama. If they see how
hard you work, they will treat you as their equal. Show your loyalty to
the company.”
Jun’s two previous marriages with Japanese produced
3 sons --- Julius who is in Architectural Computer Science, is now in
America. The other two are Jason and Jeffrey. As a doting father, he
imparts in them wisdom of a self-made man as he is. “Dahil sa malayo
tayo sa pamilya natin, kailangang kahit hindi physically present, tuloy
pa rin ang bonding." Before the 2007 ended, Jun’s mother passed away in
the USA at 89 due to kidney failure. "It was the saddest moment in my
entire life because I lost someone so dear and precious. Hindi ko na
siya inabutan inspite of the fact that I took the first flight
available to be at her side." Perhaps, these are some of the realities
we have to deal with as migrants when someone in the family passes away.
Meanwhile, the new Knights of Rizal is on the
go again with a plan to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Jose Rizal on
June 19. Active members also include Mr. Kiyoshi Miyagawa, the first
Japanese Exchequier (treasurer) who owns ACT Tourist, servicing Pinoys
in Kansai. Consul Senen Mangalile and other officers of the consulate
are also the grand knights of this group. Coincidentally, like Rizal,
Jun was born in June and if Rizal had a Josephine Bracken, he is also
proud of his lovely and dedicated NIDA, who has been his source of joy
and inspiration through the years.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
My father is from Sto. Tomas, Batangas and my mother is from Calumpit, Bulacan.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN OSAKA?
For 28 years now.
WHAT IS YOUR PROFESSION?
Company Employee.
WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST IN THE PHIL.?
My relatives especially my eldest sister, Rizalina. I always long for
Christmas in the Philippines because it is the best season to feel the
warmth of family.
WHAT IS YOUR WEIRDEST EXPERIENCE IN JAPAN?
When my mom passed away because it was the only time I felt so lonely in Japan.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT JAPAN?
Peaceful, safe and it has the most ideal and systematic health care system.
IF YOU CAN CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT JAPAN, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
I wish there will be more equipment and machines with bilingual
instructions. Many foreign workers operate such machines in workplaces
most Japanese dread --- the 3 K’s or maybe 3D’s … DIRTY, DANGEROUS AND
DEPLORABLE.
IF YOU COULD TEACH THINGS YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM THE JAPANESE, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Japanese workers are so honest about the effort and time they put into
anything. They always live up to certain expectations. Sana ganoon din
tayo.
YOUR RECIPE FOR A SUCCESSFUL LIFE HERE?
First, faith in the Lord. Second, stay focused on what you do now.
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January-February 2008
THE JAPAN FOUNDATION’S JAPANESE
LANGUAGE INSTITUTE, KANSAI
With Fiona, Wowie & Jamir
(L-R: Neriza, Fiona, Wowie, Jamir and Martin)
Year 2007, the year of the ferocious boar,
characterized by the abrupt changes in Japan’s political arena,
scandals grabbing headlines here and there, has ended quickly. The year
of the mouse has just begun… charming and quick, adorable, yet so
vulnerable.
The year-end parties with work colleagues, friends
and family over a steaming pot of blowfish wiped out the fatigue. It
seemed that everyone appeared in a hurry… shopping, partying, cleaning
so I found solace in the company of kababayans during the
“simbang-gabi” officiated by Fr. Mario Colina, the first ever to be
celebrated in Kansai. Members of the Kitano Filipino Christian
Community and the Suita Catholic Community took turns singing at the
masses with guitar accompaniment of Consul Senen. After mass,
a "salu-salo" followed to which Fr. Mario commented: "This
is exactly what I had hoped for in my long years of service here -- a
true Catholic tradition at Christmas," while helping himself to a
hot bowl of "arroz caldo." Some of the attendees were Filipino scholars
studying at universities in Kansai. I can imagine the loneliness of
spending Christmas and New Year away from the Philippines so I
was also relieved that there is a place they can feel the real yuletide
spirit, inspite of myself.
Recently, the number of foreign students in Japan on
international scholarships has totaled to about 1,700 with a plan to
increase to 1,800 in the next academic year.
And to start the New Year, I would like to feature 3
outstanding students at the Japan Foundation Japanese Language
Institute, Kansai - - 2 Filipinos and an Austrian national. Beginning
this year, I plan to feature non-Filipinos in this column who have been
outstanding in their respective fields related to Japan-Philippine
relations.
LORI ANN TOLENTINO HAO (Wowie) is an independent
filmmaker in GMA Channel 7 in the Philippines who graduated from the
University of the Philippines. She received a 4-month research grant
focusing on the status of Filipino caregivers in Japan.
JAMIR OCAMPO whose scholarship grant is for 3
years is a photo-journalist doing research on migrant Filipinos in
Western Japan and he will go to Kyoto University after his Japanese
language studies at the Center.
FIONA KATHARINA SEIGER, is an Austrian
national who is pursuing her Master’s degree has interviewed many
Filipinas married to Japanese. She was accepted by an NGO group in the
Philippines helping women and children beginning April next year.
What makes these young people extraordinary? All of
them are in their 20’s with full of life, vision and vigor. Unlike,
many young Japanese influenced by Japan’s values on commercialism,
these students see beyond the lenses of the human eye. Like the other
scholars, I had the pleasure of meeting them at their spacious
cafeteria. Joining us is Martin from Denmark, who is doing a research
on Japanese Language Education, provided the photo for this interview.
They were not so awed by the latest attraction in Rinku Pleasure
Town SEACLE, a gigantic shopping mall cum amusement area with a
magnificent Ferris Wheel glittering right in front of the Japan
Foundation Building.
The Japan Foundation was
established in 1972 to foster better international understanding
through cultural exchanges. In October 2003 it became an independent
Administrative institution with 3 main programs: Arts and
Culture, Japanese Language and Japanese Studies and Intellectual
Exchange through the Tokyo Headquarters and branches in Kyoto, Urawa
and Kansai (Rinku Town). The Centers are comfortably equipped with
dormitory rooms, laundry rooms, courtyards, a Japanese style house,
classrooms, library, computer rooms, audio-visual studio, auditorium
and a recreation room with a karaoke, their favorite hang-out
especially for Fiona whose other dream is to be scouted in Philippine
showbiz after meeting Japanese T.V. personality YA-CHAN, a regular
performer at ABS-CBN.
Fiona speaks several languages – French,
German, English, Japanese and a little Filipino. She has lived in many
countries growing up. She has been toJapan on several occasions after
her graduation from the university. Her research concerns the status of
women especially wives of Japanese. Aside from the interviews,
Fiona immersed herself deeper into the Filipino community attending
masses at the Kyoto Pag-asa Community or volunteering at events. At the
Midosuji Parade in October, Fiona wore a Maria Clara and walked
alongside the Japanese and Filipinos. "I noticed that many people were
wondering if I was a Filipina too, judging from their bewildered faces
as I waved and said Mabuhay, I love the Philippines. And I feel a
strong bond with Filipinos that is why I decided to go back to Austria
for a while after my research presentation then go to the Philippines
in April for the next phase of my study."
Jamir stayed in Japan for Christmas and
New Year among friends in Tokyo and in Kyoto. Inspite of being so used
to the cold in his native Baguio City, where he was also a student at
U.P., Jamir dreads the bitter cold winter here. "It’s good I have my
muffler made in Baguio. It keeps me warm." he adds. Jamir has
some of his photos exhibited at the Center. He is particularly
interested in the changing of seasons in Japan, most notably autumn.
"The colors are enchanting --- hues of red, yellow and orange." When he
watched the Midosuji parade, he was visibly impressed with the lavishly
decorated floats and the the Japanese swordmen.
WOWIE represents a new genre of Filipino women
– determined but with a heart so warm and gentle. She epitomizes the
empowered woman who can express her views through a powerful medium—the
television. Compared to Japan with very few women directors, the
Philippines has produced notable film directors like Marilou Diaz
Abaya, who is vey much respected in the Japanese Film Circle. Wowie
worked at an early age to help augment the family income. She was hired
in a television company where she did documentaries. Later, she
received a research grant to come to Japan to study the conditions of
Filipino caregivers. On December 12, she made a presentation of her
research in Japanese complete with music. "The interviews I had with
many Filipino residents here who are also working as caregivers have
given me more insight into the working conditions in the health sector
in Japan. A Filipina worker also commented that we have to assert our
rights in the workplace considering the fact that more foreign workers
will be needed in this area," she explained. Soon after her successful
presentation, Wowie left for the Philippines to be reunited with her
family and started filming her new documentary for GMA 7.
So what’s in store for these three young people in
the year of the Mouse? No doubt it is going to be a good year and who
knows WOWIE, JAMIR and FIONA will be leaders in their respective fields
as the Japan Foundation has envisioned them to be: people who create
and transform knowledge and culture... and eventually make it bloom.
Where are you from?
WOWIE: Las Pinas
JAMIR: Baguio City
FIONA: Vienna, Austria
How long have you stayed in Japan?
W: 3 months J: 7 months F: on and off for 20 months
What is your occupa-tion/profession?
W: Independent Film maker J: Student
F: M.A. student
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
W: Warmth of our people, I miss my work and my car because while
in Japan I had to take the train most of the time in my research.
J: My mom’s Adobo and Pinakbet.
F: Well, I haven’t been to the Philippines yet but I miss our Christmas cookies in Austria.
What is the weirdest thing you have experienced in Japan?
W: After using the ladies’ room at the Hanshin Department Store,
I realized there were so many buttons I could not decide which is for
flushing. Then I pressed a button and suddenly the security guards were
standing in front of the door
J: I find many unusual expressions in the language such
as the use of “ watashi” and “watakushi”. Of course , we have
studied about honorific forms so now I understand. But I am still
puzzled by the fact that many Japanese refrain from criticism and avoid
direct confrontation as much as possible.
F: One day, I took a taxi from the station to our dormitory about
5 minutes away but when I got off, he said “That’s ok” and I really
wonder if he gives free rides to anybody.
What do you like best about Japan or your place in particular?
W: Packaging and wrapping of goods and all canned goods can be opened easily.
J: I like the colors of autumn. Trains are so convenient.
F: There are so many restaurants to choose from.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
W: More humor in their lives. Life needs balance. Filipinos
always laugh but that isn’t enough. The Japanese are no doubt the most
hardworking people but having a little lighter approach to things will
make each day bearable.
J: Maybe more open- mindedness to diversities in multicultural settings.
F: Well, I think that in the light of the current
environmental issues, there should be less packaging and wasting.
People just keep on buying things they don’t really need and then
throwing them away indiscriminately.
If you could teach things you have learned from the Japanese, what would it be?
W: The patience and perseverance of the Japanese, when they know that
something has to be done, they strive to finish it no matter how.
J: Sense of Discipline and Punctuality.
F: Inspite of the fact that many things seem superficial in
Japan, I still admire the way the Japanese hold on to their traditional
culture such as genuinely appreciating art forms and the natural
environment.
Please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan.
W: Like most Filipinos abroad, I believe that our greatest
motivation is our family and it is a choice we make as a Filipino.
Whenever I think of my mom and my family, the greater patience I have
to strive and move on with my research.
J: Be it good or bad stuff, I try to be critical and appreciative
as well. As I begin another day, I try to look at the positive side
first, coming to terms with the way of living here, made a lot of
difference especially at my first winter here.
F: Unless I don’t find something to cling to like a job or project that
I really want to do or something that can make me feel that I am doing
something worthwhile then I can survive anywhere.
-------------------------------------------------------------
NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2007
A ROSE AMONG THE CHRYSANTHEMUMS
With ROSEMARIE KASAI
 Rose with son & daughter
Hirakata Park in Hirakata
City showcases the KIKU NINGYO or life-sized dolls garbed in
chrysanthemum flowers. In winter, lonely Filipinos, attracted by the
brightly decorated attractions spend Christmas and New Year here
inspite of the freezing temperature. But maybe not this year anymore.
In nearby Korien Station, a certain Rose from Bicol will be on hand to
welcome guests at her restaurant BICOL EXPRESS and newly – opened
karaoke bar BE-COOL. Every little corner in the restaurant tells much
about the owner. Copies of JP are neatly displayed waiting to be picked
up by customers. Newspaper clippings and pictures of her dance troupe
are on the wall close to a huge TV screen that run a non-stop Pinoy
variety show.
Rose came to Japan about 20
years ago. She got married gave birth to a girl Maria Cristina
(17) and Timothy James (15). In 1999, with the advise and assistance of
Ms. Carmen Matsushima she organized the Osaka Mabuhay Community and
they have performed in various events in Kansai. Officials at the
Hirakata City Government were so impressed with their performances that
they were also invited to schools and community centers. Just before
her eldest daughter entered Senior High School, Rose and her husband
parted ways.
Determined to go on with
raising her two children, she opened BICOL EXPRESS to supplement the
family income. "Hay naku, talagang kayod ang ginawa ko. Mula umaga
hanggang madaling araw, mag-isa akong nagtiyaga---- pamamalengke, luto,
linis etc. Alam mo, pag tapos na ang lunch sa restaurant, takbo na ako
sa station. Naka-Philippine costume: minsan Maria Clara, minsan
Igorota, minsan Muslim.
Nagpapamigay ako ng leaflet para mag-attract ng customers," recalls
Rose with pride. On some days, she would ride in her bicycle
distributing leaflets in every house. Her efforts paid off when a
Japanese family came in to try Philippine food after getting a leaflet
in their mailbox.
Recently, her customers include Brazilians and Colombians who live in
the area. Even those who come all the way from Shiga and Kyoto drop by
to eat. Another Filipina who visits regularly, Arlene Mishima, the
Queen of Korien -- according to Rose, has all praises for the
hardworking Rose of Korien or Pacing, a nickname given to her for being
too apologetic.
Realizing their mom’s
perseverance, her children have started to assist her at the restaurant
on days they are free from school. "Pati nga boyfriend ng anak ko e
tumutulong na rin," she adds. Still the big bulk of managing the
business rests on her shoulders. She read books on bookkeeping and
taxation. Now that she opened a karaoke bar she named BE-COOL with
Sharen, a part-timer she hired to manage the place, Rose can now take a
little time off to sing her favorite “...can’t help myself. I fall in
love again.” And to all of those spending Christmas in Japan, try Bicol
Express dishes this Christmas and the Rose of Hirakata will make sure
you will come back again and again.
MALIGAYANG PASKO AT MASAGANANG BAGONG TAON SA INYONG LAHAT!
Where are you from?
THE BICOL REGION DAET, CAMARINES NORTE.
What is your occupation/ profession?
PHILIPPINE RESTAURANT OWNER
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
THE REUNIONS AND PARTIES WITH MY FAMILY AT CHRISTMAS
What’s the weirdest thing you have experienced in Japan?
WHEN I STAYED WITH MY MOTHER-IN-LAW A FEW MONTHS AFTER MARRIAGE, I NOTICED THAT FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS WERE QUITE
DIFFERENT FROM WHAT I WAS USED TO IN THE PHILIPPINES SUCH AS
CARING FOR THE SICK AND THE ELDERLY. THERE WAS NOT MUCH OF THE TENDER
LOVING CARE FILIPINOS ARE CAPABLE OF. I TOOK CARE OF MY
MOTHER-IN-LAW UNTIL HER DEATH IN 1994.
What do you like best about Japan or your place in particular?
HIRAKATA IS VERY ACCESIBLE AND IT IS ONLY ABOUT 15 MINUTES AWAY FROM
KYOBASHI BY KEIHAN LINE; THE CITY GOVERNMENT ASSISTS FOREIGNERS WITH
SPECIAL NEEDS. THEY ALSO ORGANIZE PROGRAMS TO PROMOTE PHILIPPINE
CULTURE IN SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY CENTERS.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
FROM SO MUCH INCLINATION TO MATERIAL THINGS TO A
SHIFT TO MORAL VALUES BY PRACTICING SOME FORMS OF RELIGION. EVERY NOW
AND THEN WE READ NEWS ABOUT CHILDREN KILLING THEIR PARENTS. THIS WILL
NOT HAPPEN IF THEY HAVE STRONG
MORAL-FOUNDATIONS
If you could teach things you have learned from the Japanese, what would it be?
BEING PUNCTUAL, EFFICIENT AND KEEPING A PROMISE.
And please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan?
I START MY DAY WITH PRAYERS AND IT ENERGIZES ME TO GO ON UNTIL THE END
OF THE DAY. THE LORD HELPED PAVE THE WAY FOR THE OPENING OF MY NEW
PLACE.
ON THE ROAD TO...
KYOTO AND UJI WITH TALES BY
Prof. JORGE V. TIGNO
JOJIE, the witty but not at all nutty professor,
would be telling tales of his Japan sojourn to students in UP by the
time this issue is off the press. He would have brought with him the
sights and sounds of “Gion Matsuri” as omiyage. This is one of the 3
most famous festivals in Japan that features a procession of floats
with decorative halberds held every summer in the ancient capital of
Kyoto. He will miss the millennium celebration of the world renowned
Japanese epic “TALES OF GENJI” set in the historic town of UJI.
Nevertheless, Jojie’s tales of adventures and mis-adventures with
Filipinos based in Kansai will be retold to succeeding generations.
JORGE “JOJIE” V. TIGNO is an Associate Professor at the University of the
Philippines’ Dept. of Political Science. With a Japanese Studies
Fellowship from the Japan Foundation, he was based at Kyoto
University’s Center for Southeast Asian Studies. His research is on
Filipinos in Osaka and Kyoto and their sense of national and political
identity in Japan. For someone with such an impressive academic
background, people would have shied away from him. It would be
unthinkable to see him comb the streets of Minami looking for a
Philippine restaurant, and finally settling for a Japanese cold tea
that blends well with the palatable Philippine BBQ sold by Mr. Roland
at a Philippine event in Soemon-cho. After a while, some Filipino
friends invited him to join them at a party nearby which turned out to
be a despedida for a Filipino contract worker going home the next day.
Amid the smell of delectable Filipino dishes all lined up for guests, the singing and
the chatting punctuated by the arrival of an ABS-CBN Japanese talent YA-CHAN.
JOJIE is cool and calm. Pagdating sa “Kodakan”
kasama siya. At kasama rin siya sa takbuhan para abutan ang huling tren
pabalik sa Kyoto. Filipinos really know how to enjoy their time inspite
of the strenuous working conditions in Japan. Somehow, they transform
the social landscape of Japan.
In parallel to the observations of Takeo
Doi in “Amae no Kozo” as translated to Filipino by Dr. Lilia F. Antonio
(ref. Mga Sanaysay at mga Tula by L.F. Antonio), JOJIE , has written
several articles on MIGRATION TO JAPAN, FILIPINO VIEWS OF JAPAN and
FILIPINO IDENTITY IN JAPAN among others. Mr. Doi cited an experience in
the house of an American he visited. He was asked if he was hungry.
Although he had not eaten yet, he declined because it was considered
impolite to answer directly. So he was never served anything to his
dismay because he was expecting to be asked again or he thought a
Japanese would rather serve a guest anything without even asking. "In
this respect, the Japanese and the Filipinos are similar," says Jojie.
"Pinoys go back to their roots, no matter where they are in any place
in the world. So it’s basically the urge to 'entertain' with
food."
His short stay in Japan has been very
productive as shown by his presence at meetings and events of various
Filipino communities in Kansai, functions of The Philippine Consulate
General in Osaka including being an observer at the May General
Elections ballot-counting for Absentee Voters. Last March, in
observance of International Women’s Day spearheaded by Consul-General
Ma.
Lourdes Ramiro-Lopez with the assistance of PCCC (Philippine Community
Coordinating Council) Jojie was the only gentleman in the panel where
he discussed “Gender Typing.” Months after the forum, Jojie and Noemi
Itsukage, PCCC chair-person, and one of the Power Women he mentioned in
his article had a casual discussion
on recent trends in Japan and on thinking of the young adults. Jojie
seems fascinated with the fashion of young men. "Mga bag nila, kung
hindi kumikinang, e, kulay pula o pink, bulaklakan pa! Yun pala e
lalaki,” Jojie chuckles. Sagot ni Noemi “Yung panganay ko nga, minsan
naka-wrap-around skirt. Ayaw na ayaw makita ng asawa ko. Nuong dumalaw
mga pamangkin ko rito, nakakita ng mga 'punks' sa Shinsaibashi, may
naka-tiss ang dyed hair. Kung nasa Pilipinas lang sila, nagulpi na
sila…" Jorge says that generally, many young Japanese have
imbibed discipline in their daily life inspite of the changing times.
Noemi
says that they are sensitive to noise but still maintain an imaginary
wall not to listen to something they are not supposed to hear. “Kaya
nga sa mga coffee shops kahit dinig na dinig mo na ang istorya ng buhay
ng nagsasalita, parang walang narinig," adds Noemi as JOJIE smiles
back. He knows, inspite of his gentle countenance that he has lots of
tales to tell his wife and 3 children waiting for him back in the
Philippines.
Where are you from?
MANILA
What is your occupation?
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF POLITICAL SCIENCE IN U.P. DILIMAN
How long have you lived in Japan?
FOR ONLY 10 MONTHS
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
FOOD LIKE OLD TIME FAVORITES KARE-KARE, LAING, TAPSILOG, LONGANISA. I
ALSO MISS THE WARMTH OF FAMILY. IT SEEMS THAT IN THE PHILIPPINES,
PEOPLE HAVE TIME FOR EVERYONE.
What is the weirdest thing that you have experienced in Japan?
ONE NIGHT I STAYED OVERNIGHT IN MINAMI WITH ROBERT, A FILIPINO MUSICIAN.
I SAW MANY JAPANESE SALARIED WORKERS - - DRUNK AND BOISTEROUS… QUITE CONTRARY TO MY FIRST IMPRESSION OF AN ORDERLY JAPAN.
What do you like best about Japan?
THE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IS PROBABLY THE BEST IN THE WORLD.
I ALWAYS ACCESS A SITE THAT PROVIDES QUICK AND ACCURATE TRAIN
SCHEDULES THAT EVEN INCLUDES FARES.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
PERHAPS, THE COLDNESS AND THE ALOOFNESS OF THE JAPANESE.
FOR SOMEONE ACCUSTOMED TO THE READY SMILE OF THE FILIPINO, THE
FORMALITIES IN DEALING WITH THE JAPANESE MAY BE QUITE
FRUSTRATING.
If you can teach things you have learned from the Japanese, what would it be?
TIME MANAGEMENT ,,,,,MEETINGS, LECTURES , SOCIAL EVENTS , EXCURSIONS OR
SIMPLE FAMILY OUTINGS ARE SYSTEMATICALLY SCHEDULED WITH NO TIME WASTED.
DRESSING APPROPRIATELY …. THE JAPANESE SENSE IN DRESSING FOR A CERTAIN
OCCASION IS WORTH EMULATING- EVEN CASUAL STYLE IS “SMART CASUAL” FOR
THEM.
Please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan.
PERSEVERANCE. IF YOU ARE FACED WITH CHALLENGES SUCH AS PEOPLE NOT
WANTING TO TALK OR LISTEN TO YOU. THE BEST APPROACH IS NOT TO BE TOO
AGGRESSIVE MAYBE YOU CAN COME UP WITH CREATIVE WAYS TO CONVINCE OTHERS.
THE QUEEN OF HER CHILDREN’S HEARTSwith HELEN UEDE
The merry month of May is here again. Golden Week sa Japan… panahon na
naman ng pista at Flores de Mayo sa Pilipinas at mayroon ding 2007
General Elections sa May 14. At sa May 13 naman ay Mother’s Day where
children all over the world shower their Mums, Mommies, mamas and
Nanay’s with carnations or cards.
Helen Uede has been waiting for years even to get a glimpse of her two
children separated from her after divorce. It has been 10 years since
that bitter family court dispute but inspite of that, Helen exudes an
aura of confidence. She reminds me of this year's academy awardee for
best actress Helen Mirren, deserving of the accolades she received for
her remarkable portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the movie “THE
QUEEN.”
Helen is endowed with beauty typical of women from the South. Born in
Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat, she graduated from Mindanao State University
BSBA Accounting, cum laude. She worked with the Philippine Commercial
and Industrial Bank before marrying a South Korean living in Osaka.
Kuntento na sana si Helen sa pagiging “ideal housewife” at ina ng
kanilang dalawang anak. Sa una, napagtiisan niya ang walang katapusang
“Hoji” o seremonya para sa mga yumaong kaanak o kaya naman ay ang mga
responsibilidad ng panganay na anak na lalaki sa pamilya. Nalaman
niyang ganoon ang tradisyon ng mga Koreano kahit sa Japan na sila
ipinanganak.
The worst drove Helen to the wall. When her husband’s business went
bankrupt, he turned to alcohol. "Mabuti na lamang at may mga kaibigan
akong Pinay na natutuluyan. Kung nagwawala na siya, awang-awa ako sa
mga anak ko. At ng mahuli kong may iba siyang babae, noon ako
nag-decide na humiwalay. Isang gabi , habang natutulog kami ng mga
bata, may bumasag sa bintana sa 2nd floor. At yung girlfriend nya pala
iyon. She tried desperately to win him back because she knew he did not
want a divorce. I left the house right after that. On certain days, I
would visit the children but later on my mother-in-law meddled and
stopped me from seeing them. Humantong sa family court ang kaso.
Tinulungan naman ako ng isang NGO group pero sa bandang huli, natalo
ako sa visitation rights dahil wala nga akong stable source of income
to support my young children. What really hurt me was that they were
able to coerced the kids to speak against me. I felt like the whole
world fell apart in front of me. Para bang niyurakan ang aking pagiging
Pilipina. But I cried in silence believing that I will always be a
mother in their hearts.”
Helen strived hard to move on and remarried a kind and loving Japanese
she nicknamed KIKO. Although she misses her children, she never fails
to send them birthday greetings. She devoted her time to work, first at
International Digital Communications 0061 in the late 90’s. Helen was
very instrumental in IDC’s sponsorship of the Centennial Celebration of
Philippine Independence held at the Asian Trade Center in 1998. After
leaving IDC, she found another fulfilling job as a freelance
interpreter which gives her more time with Kiko and a chance to travel
once in a while. "If this is what we call empowerment of women, then I
would gladly say that I have found my real worth as a woman," Helen
said with a dignified smile. And as if I heard her say, "Someday,
somehow…the same thing might happen to you.”
Where are you from?
TACURONG, SULTAN KUDARAT
What is your occupation/ profession?
INTERTRETER
How long have you lived in Osaka?
ABOUT 21 YEARS
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
SIYEMPRE, YUNG PAMILYA KO ROON.
What is the weirdest thing that you have experienced in Japan?
NOONG SUMUGOD SA BAHAY NAMIN ANG LOVER NG DATING ASAWA KO… PUMANHIK SA
ITAAS, BINASAG ANG SALAMIN NG BINTANA. AKALA KO WALANG GUMAGAWA NG
GANOON DITO SA JAPAN.
What do you like best about Japan?
IN GENERAL, JAPAN IS STILL THE SAFEST PLACE TO LIVE.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
I HOPE THAT COUPLES CAN VIEW MARRIAGE AS A LIFETIME COMMITMENT NOT ONLY
TO EACH OTHER BUT TO THEIR CHILDREN, AS WELL. WHEN COUPLES DIVORCE, IT
IS THE CHILDREN WHO SUFFER THE
CONSEQUENCES.
If you can teach things you have learned from the Japanese, what would it be?
AS EVERY ONE KNOWS, PUNCTUALITY IS NUMBER ONE, DILIGENCE IS NEXT AND THE THIRD IS DEDICATION TO WORK.
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR RECIPE FOR A SUCCESSFUL LIFE IN JAPAN.
BY HAVING AN OPEN COMMUNICATION BETWEEN ME AND MY HUSBAND, KIKO
AND OF COURSE, BY BEING SIMPLY MYSELF.
A ROAD NOT YET TAKEN
with CHARLIE
MARCH, a month that seems to me like a big kaleidoscope. At one glance,
the colors begin to appear like a rainbow and then at the next peep,
they all disappear. This is a month of endings and beginnings, as well.
This is the season for graduations - from kindergarten to university; a
season for moving to new homes or for transferring to new jobs. This is
also a time for deadlines. The end of the fiscal year means
filing income taxes. And speaking of deadlines,
I was caught right in the middle of everything with a bad cold which I
have been nursing for several days now. Mabuti na lang at mahaba ang
pasensya ng mabait na JP editor na si Dennis.
At my youngest son’s graduation from Senior
High School, a blessing in disguised for me considering the fact that
he was a “FUTOKO” (a habitual absentee) since elementary, I shed a tear
for the first time. It is not the usual me. I used to wonder why many
Japanese cry at graduation ceremonies as the background music
accentuates the scene. After the certificates were given, the Principal
gave a very touching speech with
“My Way” as the BGM. He advised the graduates to face life’s challenges and move on to the next step.
I always thought my son would never
graduate. As I saw him stood up when his name was announced, he was
confident. Then I realized that I must write something on how this
young man overcame social hurdles in search for his Filipino heritage.
Charlie was born with deformed thumbs and
underwent two painful operations to reform his fingers. When he started
elementary, his classmates thought that having only 4 fingers on each
hand was odd. So, they began to poke fun at him. He could not write
well and it took so much time for him to tear papers or pick up
something. Going to school was not fun anymore so Charlie started to
skip classes and waking up each morning became difficult. We started to
bring him to counseling sessions once a week. In Grade 5, Ms, Okada,
his homeroom teacher thought of ways to make Charlie enjoy school. She
divided the class into groups and assigned them to make a research on
the Philippines with topics like basic Information about the
Philippines: short history, Filipino folktales, food, costumes, and
school Life of Filipino children. The research was so extensive that it
was presented to the school administrators and teachers of the whole
Osaka Prefecture as a sample activity for multicultural understanding.
That same year, Charlie was featured in a Documentary produced by NHK’s
“Hello Nippon entitled: “Firipin no Kodomo Tachi” where Filipino
–Japanese children talked about problems of being bullied in schools
because of their multicultural background.
With a little confidence gained,
he decided to take up Information Technology in Senior High School
because of his special interest in computers. Just before graduation,
his homeroom teacher, Hotokawa-sensei helped him land a job at a
subsidiary company operating at Kansai International Airport. His
fascination for airplanes and airports started during our first visit
to the Philippines when he bought his first set of miniature PAL planes
which is now part of his worldwide collection of toy planes. And now
his dream of seeing real planes fly and land has come true.
Looking back at those days when he
didn’t want to go to school and how our family struggled to cope up
with a child with an identity problem, it was not easy preserving the
family harmony. But some of these sacrifices will bear fruit in the
future as Charlie takes the road not yet taken.
Where are you from?
OSAKA
What is your occupation?
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE
How many times have you been to the Philippines?
MORE THAN 10 TIMES.
What do you like best about the Philippines?
THE TRICYCLE ---- CUTE and CONVENIENT AND THE JEEPNEY BUT A LITTLE TOO COLORFUL
What is the weirdest thing that you have experienced in the Philippines?
WHILE HAVING DINNER AT A RESTAURANT IN THE PHILIPPINES WHEN I WAS ABOUT
8 YEARS OLD, ALL OF A SUDDEN THE WAITERS BEGAN TO SING. THEN THE
COOKS JOINED THE BAND AND EVEN THE SECURITY GUARD BELTED OUT A SONG. I
THOUGHT THEY WERE CRAZY BUT THEY WERE VERY
EXCELLENT. I LEARNED LATER THAT IT WAS THE FAMOUS SINGING COOKS AND WAITERS RESTAURANT.
What do you like best about Japan?
THEIR EDUCATION SYSTEM ENABLES ANYBODY TO GO THROUGH PROPER SCHOOLING.
If you can change things in Japan, what would it be?
MAYBE I WOULD LIKE JAPAN TO GO BACK TO HOW IT WAS TO THE GOOD OLD DAYS
WHEN NEIGHBORS AND OTHER COMMUNITY MEMBERS HAD MORE TIME TO TALK
LEISURELY.
If you could teach things you have learned from the Filipinos, what would it be?
BEING GENUINELY GENEROUS. WHEN WE WENT ON HOLIDAYS IN BORACAY, A
SCENIC WHITE BEACH RESORT, I SAW YOUNG BOYS CATCHING SMALL CRABS. I
WANTED SOME FOR MYSELF, TOO, BUT I DID NOT KNOW HOW TO CATCH. I
TRIED TO PAY THEM IN EXCHANGE FOR THE CRABS, BUT THE BOYS SAID WITH
BEAMING FACES, YOU CAN HAVE ALL OF THE CRABS AS A SOUVENIR FROM US.
Please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan.
MY FAMILY’S LOVE AND SUPPORT, ESPECIALLY MY TWO OLDER BROTHERS, ANDREW
AND BRANDO. ANDREW IS STRICT WITH ME BUT I HAVE LEARNED MANY THINGS
ABOUT BUSINESS FROM HIM. BRANDO HAS GIVEN ME A LOT OF ADVICE ON FASHION
AND HAIRSTYLE. IF THERE IS A CHANCE, I WOULD LIKE TO VISIT THE
PHILIPPINES AGAIN WITH THEM. EVEN A SHORT VISIT IS SO RELAXING OVER
THERE. IT'S JUST WHAT EVERYBODY NEEDS TO COPE UP WITH OUR HECTIC
LIFESTYLE IN JAPAN.
----------------------------------------------------
THE SHOPPING PARADISE OF OSAKA - KITA AREA WITH CHRISTIAN “TOSHI” DELOS SANTOS
January-February 2007 Issue
A HAPPY NEW YEAR dear Jeepney Press readers. It’s the year of the boar
and in accordance with the traditional “Toka Ebisu”, from Jan. 9-11,
people make a pilgrimage to Nishinomiya Shrine to pray to the God of
good fortune “EBESSAN." Yoi Ebisu is on the 9th, Hon Ebisu is 10th and
the 11th is the nokori fuku. FUKUOTOKO, which means “lucky person” is
the title given to the first man who enters the shrine after the gate
opens at 6 a.m. after a tough race of more than a hundred men.
And for sure, we also have a FUKUOTOKO to be
the first this year in this column…. TOSHI. On the day of our interview
on January 10, he was in his favorite shop in the Kita area, home to
the largest terminal station complex in western Japan and a gigantic
shopping and entertainment district and by the year 2011, it is going
to be another exciting shopper’s paradise. He is an avid collector of
GUNDAM TOYS and exotic pets: beetles, tarantulas, a green iguana and a
Ball python… just to mention a few.
CHRISTIAN DELOS SANTOS was born in Osaka in 1974, to
a Japanese mother and a Filipino government official. When he was five
years old, they moved to the Philippines but visited Japan occasionally
on holidays. He went to study at an exclusive Catholic school. His Dad
introduced Toshi to the exciting world of animals through books. When
he was 8, he started collecting toys and soon those were replaced with
real
animals: 3 reticulated pythons among those that escaped from their cages one time.
While in college, he was smitten by a
young and charming classmate named Jean, got married and are now
parents of two lovable kids aged 10 and 8. The young family man worked
as a steward at PAL for only 8 months. In order to support his growing
family, his mother suggested that he should find a better job in Japan.
He worked at a wood flooring company in Nagoya. Later on, a friend of
his Mom, Mr. Ninomiya recommended him to the DOT Osaka. He felt that
the job gave him a better chance to do his PR skills. When renowned
coutourier, PITOY MORENO guested at a BRIDAL FASHION SHOW with his top
models, he requested DOT Osaka to look for a male model. So they sent
him Toshi’s photos and the coutourier was pleased. Toshi’s debut on the
ramp was followed with pictorials in some scenic spots in Mie
Prefecture which were included in a publication of Pitoy’s creation. He
was also invited to model for community events where he would often be
asked to sing, too.
More opportunities came in 2003 when he joined the
Metrobank Osaka Marketing team where they get a chance to meet
many Filipino workers in various parts of Japan. “We were treated as
VIP’s by many of our kababayans from as far as Hiroshima, Mie, Aichi
and Shiga. My former boss, Sir Alfred, always urged Pinoys to save
something for themselves, too, instead of remitting all of their
hard-earned yen to the Philippines. He also has a lot of nice things to
say about his new boss Sir Marlon--- kind and fair.
A loyal family man who believes in putting the
family on his top priority, Toshi spends his free time playing with his
kids: Jerise Toshimasa and Shien Mariko. Maybe I am more like my dad
who taught me how to play basketball, billiard and boxing. On days-off,
he plays basketball with some of his Chinese, Hawaiian and Filipino
friends. Thanks to my understanding wife, Jean, I still enjoy some
freedom including keeping his entire collection of 300 Gundam figures,
some of those are the rare American figures that can fetch high prices.
I do not open those. I consider this hobby a kind of treasure-hunting.
Although he misses his other siblings in
the Philippines like Christopher, Clark Catherine and Kaori, he walks
around Kita-area for the latest addition to his collection of toys and
some exotic animals for sale.
Looking towards what is best for him in
2007, Toshi believes that the biggest motivation for Pinoys working
here is the fact that their families in the Philippines can enjoy a
better life.
Where are you from?
PARANAQUE, METRO MANILA
What is your occupation/profession?
BANKER.
How long have you lived in Japan?
I WAS BORN HERE IN OSAKA IN 1974, THEN WE
MOVED TO MANILA IN 1979. IN YEAR 2000, I STARTED TO WORK HERE.,
What do you miss most about the Philippines?
BASKETBALL AND THE GYM IN METRO MANILA.
What is the weirdest thing that you have experienced in Japan?
PEOPLE OFTEN THINK I AM CHINESE OR KOREAN ESPECIALLY WHEN I START TO TALK IN JAPANESE.
What do you like best about Japan?
IT IS SO PEACEFUL HERE, SO TIDY AND EVERYTHING IS PRECISE. YOU
WILL SURELY REACH YOUR DESTINATIONS ON TIME BY TRAIN. NO TIME IS
WASTED.
If you can change one thing about Japan, what would it be?
I THINK IT IS ABOUT TIME THEY GAIN AN
APPRECIATION OF OTHER FOREIGN CULTURES AND I WISH MANY JAPANESE
CAN COMMUNICATE IN ENGLISH OPENLY SO THAT IT WILL BE A LITTLE EASIER
FOR FOREIGNERS TO LIVE HERE.
If you can teach things you have learned from the Japanese, what would it be?
DISCIPLINE AND ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS. I WAS IMPRESSED AT HOW
ORDERLY THE PEOPLE LINED UP AT THE CONCERT OF “COLD PLAY.”
Please tell us about your recipe for a successful life in Japan.
HARD WORK, PATIENCE AND PRAYERS. AND ONE
MORE THING, I THINK THAT IT IS MY ATTITUDE TO ALWAYS FIND TIME FOR
EVERY THING: MY FAMILY, MY WORK AND MY HOBBIES THAT MAKE MY DAILY LIFE
SO INTERESTING.
with LIZETTE DIANE YU KO MITAMURATHE
MAPLE COLORED MOUNTAINS OF MINOO
with LIZETTE DIANE YU KO MITAMURA
(September-October Issue 2006)
Autumn is when the mountains of
Minoo in northern Osaka change their colors to bright orange and golden
brown. In contrast to the baby pink colors of the cherry blossoms in
spring, the autumn colors and its falling leaves herald a new time for
reflection for many. But for the young, it is a time to prepare for
maturity.
Pretty and bubbly at 15, Lizette
Diane Yu Ko Mitamura or Zeena for short is Grade 10 (equivalent to 3rd
year JHS ) at the Senri International School in Onohara, located
between two state universities soon to merge in 2008 --- the Osaka
University and the Osaka University of Foreign Studies. Scholars and
researchers from all over the world convene in this serene
international metropolis where the majestic Sun Symbol of Expo’70 can
be seen from the Minoo Falls.
Zeena’s diverse cultural background
is as unique as the person that she is. Sometimes she laments the fact
that many Japanese teenagers are not proud of their rich cultural
heritage. Sometimes youngsters from other countries come to Japan with
a preconceived meaning of “Japanese culture” – limited to anime,
manga,video games and J-Pop culture. Other teenagers, especially a
group of exchange students from Melbourne, Australia who came to Osaka
have been studying Japanese language and culture prior to their visit.
Life at Osaka International School
is spiced with her involvement in the school’s musical presentations.
She started with minor roles in Grade 5 in such musicals as The Sound
of Music, The Wizard of Oz and as the main character Brundibar, she had
more singing roles but so far the most challenging was her role in The
Magic Flute. Aside from that she plays the flute, the piano and the
guitar in some concerts of the school.
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